Need a new laptop? We can help.

Two UB students use laptops in a UB classroom during an orientation session.

Photo by Meredith Forrest Kulwicki

Published March 15, 2024

Well, it finally happened. Your laptop is broken. It was bound to happen sometime… but did it have to happen right after spring break!?

There’s never a good time to find yourself without a laptop. If a broken device has you worried about finishing the semester strong, read on to learn about some options available to you to bridge the gap.

Borrow a laptop from UB Libraries

UB Libraries’ laptop loan program has helped hundreds of students without a working laptop. The best part? It’s completely free.

Visit the UB Libraries’ website for information about tech specs, the borrowing process and more.

Supplies are limited and you may be put on a wait list. If there are no laptops currently available for loan, keep reading… there are more resources to help you if you don’t have a laptop or yours is broken.

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Use the computers in UB’s public computing sites

Hundreds of Windows and iMac computers all over campus are available to UB students in UB’s computing sites. Each one has standard software installed and is conveniently located near printing and other technology resources.

UB’s public computers are a great option if you’re on campus and able to set aside time to work in a computing site. But eventually, you’ll probably want your own laptop. Fortunately, UB students get discounts on laptops from many major manufacturers.

Use your UB student discount to buy a new laptop

While most laptop manufacturers offer student discounts, the discounts work differently for each brand. If you’re buying in a store, you’ll probably have to show your UB Card. If you’re buying online, you may be asked to verify your school affiliation with your UBmail address.

To make things easier, UBIT works with manufacturers to identify lower-cost laptops that meet UB’s minimum recommendations.

For example, UB students are eligible to buy discounted Lenovo laptops, starting under $600. Apple has a dedicated University at Buffalo store with discounts on MacBooks, iPads and more. Dell also offers laptops for students, with prices starting under $600. 

Don't forget the UB Tech Squad is here to help

Want to know how to keep your laptop healthy all semester long? Here's three tips from the UB Tech Squad on how you can be proactive with your device to avoid possible problems in the future. 

The Tech Squad will troubleshoot problems with your device for free. Just book an appointment online, and one of our experts will look at your laptop and help determine what the problem is.

If the problem falls under their covered services, they’ll repair it; otherwise, they’ll confirm whether you need to buy or find another laptop to use.